Head women’s volleyball coach Jordan Willis, who led his team to its first NCAA tournament appearance in the 47-year history the program, is the inaugural recipient of the CATalyst Award. This new recognition from Florida Tech Athletics honors a staff member who reinforces the mission of developing diverse athletes into scholars, champions and leaders and displays Athletics’ core values of “Sweat Equity, Grit and Growth and Build Your Legacy.”
“I am honored and humbled to be the first recipient of this award. Being recognized by my peers means more to me than any other award could,” Willis said. “To be seen, heard and made to feel like I am making a difference in this department touches me deeply.”
The nomination submission described Willis’ dedication to both the success of the volleyball program and the well-being of the scholar-athletes as “unwavering” and “remarkable,” noting his emphasis on the importance of classroom success and life beyond athletics.
Willis was hired as the volleyball head coach in February 2023 and finished that season 9-21 overall with a 3-17 conference record. For the 2024 season, the team’s overall record was 20-9, just the third 20-win season in program history.
“It is befitting that Jordan Willis is the first person to receive this award,” Director of Athletics Jamie Joss said. “His transformation of our team from 11th to 4th place in the Sunshine State Conference and advancing to the NCAA South Regional tournament for the first time in our 47-year history of volleyball has been truly remarkable and exemplifies true leadership.”
The award’s name highlights the importance of pursuing significant change or action. It is also presented alongside a replica Pete the Panther, the big cat that is Florida Tech’s beloved mascot.
